NEW DELHI: 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic on Sunday refused to participate in the customary post-match TV interview at the Australian Open following his win over Jiri Lehecka in straight sets.
The 37-year-old’s interview snub came in protest of the comments made on air by Tony Jones, who works for Channel 9, the official broadcaster of the tournament in the host country.
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During an on-air appearance at Melbourne Park, where a crowd of Djokovic’s supporters were chanting, Jones referred to the Serbian player as overrated and a has-been.
Although Djokovic did not name Jones directly, he expressed his dissatisfaction with the comments.
“A famous sports journalist who works for official broadcaster, Channel 9 … made a mockery of Serbian fans and also made insulting and offensive comments toward me,” Djokovic said, mentioning that he will continue to avoid speaking to the network.
“I leave it to Channel 9 to handle this the way they think they see fit. That’s all,” Djokovic said.
After defeating Jiri Lehecka in three sets at Rod Laver Arena and advancing to the quarterfinals, Djokovic was expected to speak with former player Jim Courier on television. Instead, he addressed the crowd directly, expressing his gratitude for their presence and support, promising to see them in the next round.
Later, during his news conference, Djokovic clarified that his decision not to do the interview was due to his displeasure with Jones and the broadcaster, not Courier or the fans in the stadium.
He also mentioned that he had spoken to Craig Tiley, the CEO of Tennis Australia, about the issue.
“I just wanted to make sure that he knows where I stand and the reasons behind it,” Djokovic said. “So I told him: ‘If you guys want to fine me for not giving an on-court interview, that’s OK.’ I’ll accept that ’cause I feel like this is something that needs to be done. That’s all there is to it.”
